Oh my goodness, you guys! If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and takes no time to whip up, then this garlic shrimp bowl with zucchini noodles in lemon butter sauce is your new best friend! Seriously, you can have this on the table in just about 20 minutes. It’s not only incredibly delicious, but it’s also light and healthy, making it perfect for any day of the week. The combination of succulent shrimp, fresh zucchini noodles, and that zesty lemon butter sauce will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s low in calories, so you can indulge without the guilt. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Garlic Shrimp Bowl with Zucchini Noodles Lemon Butter Sauce
Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, grab a large skillet and heat up that unsalted butter over medium heat. You want it nice and melted, but be careful not to let it brown—nobody wants burnt butter in this delicious dish! Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic. Oh boy, just wait until that fragrant aroma fills your kitchen! Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it’s golden and fragrant.
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste, and cook those shrimp until they turn a beautiful pink color—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want to overcook shrimp! Once they’re perfectly pink, it’s time to add the magic: pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the zest—this is where the flavor really shines!
Next, toss in the spiralized zucchini noodles. Give everything a good toss to combine and let them heat through for just a minute or two. You want them to soften slightly but still have a bit of crunch. Finally, plate your gorgeous garlic shrimp bowl, sprinkle with fresh parsley for that pop of color, and serve immediately. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Bowl
- Quick to make: This dish comes together in just about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Low in calories: With only around 350 calories per serving, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a rich, mouthwatering sauce that elevates the shrimp and zucchini noodles.
- Healthy: Packed with protein from the shrimp and nutrient-rich veggies, this bowl is a great choice for a wholesome meal.
- Versatile: Feel free to mix things up with different proteins, veggies, or spices to make it your own!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your garlic shrimp bowl is nothing short of amazing! Here are my top tips to help you nail this dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest shrimp you can find. Trust me, it makes a world of difference! Look for shrimp that’s firm and has a slight ocean smell—nothing fishy, please!
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on those shrimp! Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp can get rubbery, and nobody wants that in their bowl!
- Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your personal taste. I love a little extra pepper for a kick, but you do you! And don’t forget to taste as you go; it’s the best way to ensure everything is just right.
- Perfect Zucchini Noodles: When adding the zucchini noodles, just toss them in for a minute or two. You want them just heated through, so they still have a nice crunch. Nobody likes soggy noodles!
- Garnish is Key: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, so don’t skip this step! It brightens everything up, making it not just tasty but beautiful too.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress yourself—and anyone lucky enough to share this garlic shrimp bowl with you! Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this garlic shrimp bowl with zucchini noodles. Here are some of my favorite variations that keep things fresh and exciting:
- Swap the Noodles: Not in the mood for zucchini? No problem! Try using spiralized carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spaghetti squash for a different twist. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture!
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition by tossing in some spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a colorful and nutrient-packed dish.
- Change Up the Protein: While shrimp is fantastic, you can easily substitute it with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is perfectly cooked!
- Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when you’re cooking the garlic. You’ll get a nice kick that pairs beautifully with the lemony sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or cilantro for a whole new flavor profile. It adds a lovely aromatic touch that’s simply irresistible.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! This garlic shrimp bowl is super versatile, and these variations can help you create a new favorite every time you make it. Enjoy exploring the possibilities!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious garlic shrimp bowl with zucchini noodles in lemon butter sauce:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But don’t worry, even with a little variation, you’re still getting a wholesome, nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and light! Enjoy knowing that you’re treating your body well while indulging in something oh-so-delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works just fine. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. They’ll still taste delicious!
What can I substitute for zucchini noodles?
If zucchini noodles aren’t your thing, feel free to swap them out for any other spiralized vegetables like carrots, cucumber, or even spaghetti if you’re in the mood for pasta. Each option brings its own flair to the dish!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the zucchini noodles may get a bit softer, but the flavor will still be fantastic!
Can I make this dish in advance?
I wouldn’t recommend making the whole dish in advance, as the zucchini noodles can become soggy. However, you can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, then cook the zucchini noodles fresh when you’re ready to eat!
What’s the best way to reheat it?
To reheat, simply warm it up gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of lemon juice or a tiny bit of butter to refresh the flavors!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious leftovers of your garlic shrimp bowl with zucchini noodles in lemon butter sauce! First off, make sure to let the dish cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent any condensation that could make your meal soggy.
Once cooled, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the zucchini noodles might get a little softer as they sit, but the flavors will still be amazing!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet for the best results. Simply warm it up over low heat, stirring gently until everything is heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you find that it’s a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of lemon juice or a tiny pat of butter to bring back that lovely lemony flavor!
And voilà, you’re all set to enjoy your scrumptious garlic shrimp bowl again! Just remember, the key is to reheat gently to keep that shrimp juicy and the flavors intact. Happy reheating!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful garlic shrimp bowl with zucchini noodles in lemon butter sauce, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to take your meal to the next level! Here are some of my favorite pairings that perfectly complement all those beautiful flavors:
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the shrimp bowl. It adds a bit of crunch and freshness that’s always welcome!
- Crusty Bread: Serve some warm, crusty bread or a baguette on the side for dipping into that luscious lemon butter sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop of it!
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers, can add color and nutrition to your plate. Just toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Quinoa or Rice: If you’re looking for something heartier, a side of fluffy quinoa or jasmine rice works wonders. The grains soak up any extra sauce and balance out the dish beautifully!
- Chilled Wine: Don’t forget a nice glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine pairs perfectly with the lemony shrimp bowl, enhancing your dining experience!
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the culinary harmony of flavors and textures, and happy dining!
Print
Garlic Shrimp Bowl with Zucchini Noodles: 20-Minute Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A flavorful garlic shrimp bowl featuring zucchini noodles in a lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, salt, and pepper; cook until shrimp is pink.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Add zucchini noodles; toss to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
- Can substitute zucchini noodles with pasta if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: garlic shrimp bowl, zucchini noodles, lemon butter sauce